Whether you plan ahead or go last minute, a family vacation is always worth the effort. Here are five ideas to consider.
Sandy Pines, Kennebunkport, Maine
Elevate a warm-weather camping experience with a stay in beautiful natural surroundings at Sandy Pines, where you’ll choose from family cottages or glamping tents spacious enough to accommodate your clan. Spend your leisure time in the heated saltwater pool, playing lawn games or on the playground with the little ones.
A short walk or bike ride away you’ll find Goose Rocks Beach, popular with families for its three miles of pristine white sand and calm waters thanks to shelter by a barrier reef. There you can rent paddleboards or kayaks, fly kites or relax and enjoy the sea breezes.
For more: https://sandypinescamping.com/
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Niagara Falls, New York
Hear it roar. And feel the mist. But don’t worry. Ponchos are provided when you board the iconic tour boat, the Maid of the Mist, to feel the power of the historic falls. Formed some 12,000 years ago, Niagara Falls, straddling the U.S. border with Canada, has long been a magnet for explorers and adventurers. By day, explore the area from multiple angles, via lush nature trails, a water-skimming jet boat, high-flying helicopter or a tethered helium balloon.
Inside the Niagara Falls State Park, visit the Observation Tower for a panoramic view of the three main falls — American, Bridal Veil and Horseshoe Falls. Each night, the park offers an illumination of the falls, along with seasonal fireworks.
For more: www.niagarafallsusa.com
Colorado Springs, Colorado
Set amid 100,000 acres in the Pike National Forest, guests of The Ranch at Emerald Valley, a high-mountain luxury getaway, can choose from richly appointed one-, two- or three-bedroom cabins so cozy you’ll have to force yourselves away from the fire and out the door to embark on the many adventures that await. Cast for trout on one of two well-stocked lakes, explore the surrounding area on horseback or hike to nearby lookout points. Challenge the gang at the archery center or settle in fireside for a masterful game of chess. Those looking for a new experience may want to join the Elk Glade wranglers in a cattle drive. At day’s end, sip fine wines and share stories of adventure while enjoying fresh gourmet fare at the dinner table or around the firepit.
Coronado Island, California
Located just across the bay from downtown San Diego, this family-friendly getaway is famous for its gentle surf and wide, welcoming beaches. It’s home to the Hotel del Coronado, an iconic Victorian gem considered the island’s crown jewel. The long, wide stretch of sand provides easy access to the water and thus the perfect home base for your family’s seaside activities. Get out the boogie boards, issue a beach volleyball challenge, take surfing lessons, learn the secrets of mermaid fitness or join a clambake. Top-notch children’s and teen programs and spa options are also available. Nearby is the Loews Coronado Bay Resort, where family members can choose from beach activities, pool time and ideas spurred by the pros at the kids' activity desk. Guests can call ahead to reserve child-friendly resources ranging from cribs and baby swings to pool toys and strollers.
Contact: www.hoteldel.com; www.loewshotels.com
Mackinac Island, Michigan
You’ll find Michigan’s iconic island in Lake Huron, between Michigan’s Upper and Lower peninsulas. You won’t find chain hotels or even cars. So hop on a bike or in a horse-drawn carriage to explore the picturesque island along with locals and other visitors. In just under four square miles, you’ll find spacious lakefront, outdoor dining, casual picnic spots, putt-putt golf, historic Fort Mackinac, interesting shops and farm-to-ferry culinary offerings. Consider a stay at the Grand Hotel for its historic grandeur or check in to the iconic Mission Point Resort and enjoy the sprawling Great Lawn dotted with colorful Adirondack chairs. You won’t want to leave the Jewel of the Great Lakes without sampling the world-famous Mackinac Island fudge.
For more: www.mackinacisland.org
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